Uncle Sam
the jocular name of the United States Government, used as John Bull is with respect to England. It is an extension of the letters U. S. (United States), printed or stamped on the Government property. It was first used in Troy, N. Y., in 1812, when certain goods purchased for the Government and branded U. S., were officially inspected by Samuel Wilson, whose local nickname was "Uncle Sam." The coincidence of nickname in full to the Government. initials suggested the application of the